A recent study published in the journal Hepatology Communications highlights the findings of the Cancer and Translational Medicine research group at the University of the Basque Country (EHU). The research revealed that hepatic stellate cells (HSCs), known for their role in liver healing, are activated in response to tumors and aid in their development. Interestingly, eliminating these activated stellate cells led to a significant reduction in liver metastasis in mice.

Hepatic stellate cells are typically activated to repair liver damage caused by conditions like fibrosis or fatty liver. They produce collagen and create scar tissue to protect the liver. However, the EHU researchers discovered that these stellate cells play a crucial role in the development of metastatic tumors.

According to Aitor Benedicto, a researcher from the EHU, when metastatic cells reach the liver, stellate cells become activated, proliferate, and contribute to the formation of new blood vessels. This process, along with other factors that weaken the body's defenses, promotes the growth of tumor cells.

The study, published in Hepatology Communications, demonstrated that removing cancer-activated stellate cells from the liver resulted in a significant decrease in liver metastasis in mice. This reduction was attributed to a decrease in collagen accumulation, blocked blood vessel formation, enhanced liver immune response, and improved tumor combat.

The researchers emphasized the essential role of stellate liver cells in the development of liver metastasis, highlighting the potential for new therapies targeting the tumor microenvironment to treat this condition.

Metastasis of Various Origins

Liver metastasis can arise from different primary cancers such as colon cancer, pancreatic cancer, breast cancer, and melanoma. The study focused on liver metastasis caused by colon cancer and melanoma, with ongoing investigations into pancreatic cancer. The response of the liver and stellate cells to metastasis was found to be consistent across different types of primary cancer.

The researchers aim to compare the behavior of the liver with and without stellate cells to identify protein changes associated with metastasis development. This comparison will help identify potential treatment targets for liver metastasis.

Colon cancer, in particular, has seen a rise in incidence, even among young individuals. Liver metastasis is a common complication of colon cancer, contributing to patient mortality. The researchers remain optimistic about the study's results, emphasizing the progress made towards finding a cure for liver metastasis.

Additional investigations into stellate cells and their role in liver diseases are ongoing, with a focus on deactivating these cells to prevent disease progression.

Additional Information

The research was initiated during Aitor Benedicto's visit to the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. Benedicto is an assistant lecturer at the EHU, teaching Cell Biology and Histology in the Pharmacy degree program and the Master's in Biomedical Research.